The role of nutrition and supplementation during pregnancy

Abstract

The fact that the maternal nutrition has a decisive effect on the development of the fetus during pregnancy has long been documented. However– in the light of the new knowledge concerning epigenetics these effects are even bigger then previously assumed. Obviously the maternal nutrition is influencing the child´s health up to its adulthood. Some effects can even be seen transgenerationally. Besides the macronutrients the micronutrients are of special importance. The supplementation of folic acid has long been established. But according to new studies the supplementation of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids also seems advisable.